Info-link: U.S. Runabout Market Snapshot

US_Runabout_Market_Snapshot

Runabouts are fiberglass outboard and stern drive boats between 16’ and 21’ in length. Popular with entry level boaters and used for general recreation, they are found in both salt and freshwater environments. They are frequently referred to as bowriders. New runabout sales have been slow to recover from the 2008 downturn, but there is a very large pre-owned market for these boats.


Here’s a quick summary:

  • There are currently just over 1.3 million runabout boats registered in the U.S., approximately 43% were purchased new or pre-owned during the past 5 years.
  • The average runabout is 26 years old and roughly 60,000 of them are being retired from the fleet each year.
  • Last year, 93% of all runabouts were purchased pre-owned (7% New).
  • Nearly half (48%) of the people that purchased runabouts in 2019 were first-time-boat buyers.

Related Content

Recreational Boating Statistics 2021

An annual compilation of recreational boating statistics in the United States, compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard using data supplied by the U.S. states and territories. Recreational Boating Statistics 2020 was released on June 30, 2021. New reports are published in early summer using certified data from the previous year.

Read More
Emergency Boarding Ladder

3 Boating Safety Tips Just Right for Fall Boating

Annapolis, Md., Sept. 07, 2022 – Fall boating season has arrived, and with it come different types of risks that cold water and air temperatures bring. Here are three boating safety tips from the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water just right for leaf peeping season. A float plan is needed: A float […]

Read More
Kayak Rescue

Recreational Boating Instruction Standards Updated

The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) in July published updated American National Standards for sailing, paddling and on-water instruction in human-propelled boating. The ABYC published an updated standard for on-water instruction in entry-level powerboat operation in December. The standards maintenance process takes place every five years to ensure standards remain current and relevant. Two […]

Read More